Size-controlled Gd2O3 nanospheres reinforced B4C/HDPE nanocomposites for neutron and gamma-ray complex radiation shielding

Gd 2 O 3 nanospheres (NSs) with three controlled sizes were synthesized via a homogeneous precipitation method. Both synthesized (Syn-) and commercial (Com-) Gd 2 O 3 fillers were employed as bifunctional neutron and gamma radiation absorbing agents to fabricate radiation shielding (RS) materials. FESEM confirmed the nanospherical morphology of Syn-Gd 2 O 3 fillers. HRTEM and SEAD indicate that all Gd 2 O 3 fillers are polycrystalline. HRTEM confirmed that the Syn-Gd 2 O 3 fillers have (321), (400), and (521) exposed crystal planes, while the Com-Gd 2 O 3 fillers have (222) exposed crystal planes, aligning with the corresponding XRD patterns. FESEM of fracture surfaces revealed a more uniform distribution of Syn-Gd 2 O 3 -NS fillers within the HDPE matrix compared to the irregularly shaped Com-Gd 2 O 3 fillers. The high specific surface area (SSA) and superior dispersibility of Syn-Gd 2 O 3 fillers enhanced the overall performance of the nanocomposite (NC). Notably, NCs containing Syn-Gd 2 O 3 -Ⅱ NSs with an average size of 82.6 ± 14.2 nm achieved a neutron and gamma shielding rates of 99.3% and 73.7%, the Σ , μ , μ m , HVL are 0.239 cm -1 , 0.092 cm -1 , 0.076 cm 2 /g, 7.57 cm, correspondingly, at a thickness of 15 cm, demonstrating its potential for high-performance radiation shielding applications. This study provides a novel strategy for designing lightweight, high-performance radiation shielding materials for nuclear facilities, aerospace applications, radioactive waste conditioning and relative fields.